Hampshire County Council will be carrying out essential repair and maintenance works to the Basingstoke Canal in the Crookham area from late October 2026 until approximately the end of March 2027. The works will include repairs to Chequers Bridge, Poulters Bridge and Zephon Swing Bridge, helping to protect these historic structures and ensure the continued safe operation of the canal.

map showing bridges on Basingstoke canal within Crookham area.

Access across Chequers and Poulters Bridges will remain open, although the towpaths directly beneath the bridges will be closed. Navigation between Chequers Bridge and Poulters Bridge will also be closed for the duration of the project. Zephon Swing Bridge will temporarily close to navigation, pedestrians and bridleway users while work is undertaken.

Crookham Wharf Car Park will be used to support the works, meaning parking will be significantly reduced and longer periods of closure are likely. Residents and visitors should also expect some additional construction traffic and occasional temporary changes to towpath access.

Further updates will be provided as the project progresses. For enquiries, contact the Basingstoke Canal Authority on 01252 370073 or info@basingstoke-canal.co.uk.